Bruce Szwast February 26th, 2011

Hey, what happened to Tony's story? I know he told a few, but there seemed to be one that just never made it. I know it is hard in a conversational form of program to finish every thought, but why do I think it was censored, or just jest? Maybe it is just my suspicious nature. Any, we need more programs like this one.

Erik did it again (and Kathy – keep those guys in line), even after a tough few days at sea. I did notice a change in Erik though; he did seem a bit more 'seasoned'. God did create a lot of water for us to enjoy and benefit from, and just enough to cover the whole world when He wanted to show us He means business. And once is enough, and even without our consent.

The reason I liked this program is because it really demonstrated the tension that exists in the Church and probably for a purpose; keeps us honest I suppose. On one hand we have the Presbyterian or Reformed practice of logic and control (will the real Calvin please stand up). On the other hand we have the free wheeling practice of letting it all hang out, if you will. Balance is good.

Last week Bruce Bronson beat me out of the gate and he said pretty much what I thought, but he was kind of tough on the 'doctrine of election and predestination'. This for me is also a bone of contention. I do know that this doctrine is part of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1648), which if you do the research, is modeled after the Irish Articles of Religion (1615). My bark here is that at least in the Irish version, I was a reasonable creature, and not a worm, or worse yet a dog.

This is where the leash gets tight. Used to be the WCF was meant to be signed off on by the leadership team and not imposed on the flock. I had an experience with a wise Presbyterian pastor who scolded his son for tossing a football with me after Sunday lunch. The pastor told me later, that he believed some things but he would not impose what he thought was personal piety on his congregation; or faith and practice.

Need I say more about this issue or should I explain why I am usually in the doghouse: I refuse to accept the WCF with a 5 point rider.

Speaking of obedience training and sanctification, I do smell the honey dew, and I must install the new bedroom blinds before the Lord's Day tomorrow. I do enjoy Sunday lunch out however, leaving a good 'tip', and engaging the world 24/7. Have a great one.

Mark Graham March 1st, 2011

This was great! A little convicting…but I survived. Oh, thanks for that by the way There certainly are a lot of missed opportunities to close the deal. I hold to the view of evangelism that it is a team sport – and some people are mainly designed to be quarterbacks and some receivers. I don't follow sports – but this image comes to mind. Anyhow, sometimes the quarterback will need, by circumstances, to tuck in and just run the ball across the line. Most of the times when I have done that it was because I was told to by someone…and the answer from the prospect was always, "No," or "I'll think about it." (a loss of 3 yards) I imagine at those times that there are wide-receivers standing out there alone waving their arms in utter dismay at my choices.

Or…this is just by way of rationalizing failure…and what I really need is breath-mints.

Always enjoy when Dr. Campolo is on. Thanks.

WordVixen March 2nd, 2011

*sigh* Dr. Campolo, it's Disney World. Disneyland is in California!

By the way, I'm very happy that none of you died during the break. And, is there any chance that you guys can end every show like that? I have no objections!